Local information

Nottinghamshire's heritage is rich and varied. Their heroes are legendary and their innovations have helped change the world.

You can explore the woodlands and parkland that inspired DH Lawrence and Lord Byron, follow in the footsteps of the legendary Robin Hood, or discover more about the influential Pilgrim Fathers. 

Nottingham was designated as a Science City in 2005 in recognition of its rich scientific heritage, industrial base and role as a leading research centre.  Having two universities the city certainly is a capital for learning.

For information on Nottinghamshire, visit the tourist board at http://www.experiencenottinghamshire.com/ 

Useful local information

• VAT - Value-added tax (VAT) is a 20% sales tax levied on most goods and services except basic food items, books and children's clothing. Restaurants must, by law, include VAT in their menu prices. If you are travelling for leisure or business purposes, you may be eligible for a VAT refund. The VAT refund scheme is called the Retail Export Scheme or Tax-Free Shopping. www.hmrc.gov.uk/vat/sectors/consumers/overseas-visitors.htm
  
  

• Electricity - UK appliances are fitted with three-pin plugs that can be connected to the UK mains supply through wall sockets. Unlike the sockets in many other countries, these have a switch to turn the power supply on and off - make sure you've turned it on if you're trying to charge your appliance. UK power sockets deliver an average voltage of 230v, although in practice this can be slightly higher. To charge devices that are compatible with this voltage, simply buy the appropriate adapter from the airport or from high street shops. If your device runs on a lower voltage, however, then you will also need a converter to stop it from over-heating. Even if your country uses lower voltages, remember to check whether your device is dual-voltage (look for the 110-240v notation) before buying a converter.
  
  

• Telephone - If you're visiting England from abroad, don't forget that the UK dialling code is +44 (which replaces the 0) and to check your own country's code before you travel.
  
  

• Health services - The National Health Service (NHS) is the main healthcare provider in the UK. NHS treatment is free for UK residents. Overseas nationals are not eligible for free NHS treatment except if they need emergency treatment while in the UK. You are strongly advised to take out travel insurance to cover any medical expenses. If you come from a country that holds a UK healthcare agreement, you are entitled to free or reduced-cost medical treatment if needed immediately for a condition that started after your arrival in the UK. If you're visiting from Europe, you need to carry a valid EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) in case you need immediate and necessary medical treatment in an NHS hospital. Without this you can be charged for treatment. Travel insurance is still advisable as it offers greater flexibility over where and how you're treated, and can cover expenses not paid for by the NHS. Find out more on the NHS website www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad
  
  

• Emergencies - Visitors should be aware of their personal safety. Call 999 for the emergency services (police, fire and ambulance) which is a free call from any phone. You can also call 112 for non-life threatening assistance and to report crimes. To report non-urgent crime, call the police on 101 from within the UK.